Ah, Amish Broccoli Salad! This dish holds a special spot in my heart and my recipe book. The first time I tried it was at a summer potluck my friend hosted. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but once I took a bite, I was blown away! The combination of crisp broccoli, sweet raisins, crunchy nuts, and that creamy dressing created a medley of flavors and textures that danced on my palate. It’s like summer in a bowl!
What I love most about this salad is its versatility. It’s perfect for get-togethers, picnics, or as a side at dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies (a little guilt-free trick we can all appreciate, right?). Whenever I make it, it never disappoints and disappears quicker than I expect. So let’s dive right into this delightful recipe!
What’s in Amish Broccoli Salad?
– Broccoli: The main star of the show! I usually opt for fresh, bright green florets. If you’re short on time, pre-washed and cut broccoli works too, but fresh is always best for flavor.
– Raisins: This adds a lovely sweetness to the salad. I prefer golden raisins for their chewy texture, but regular raisins work just fine. Use them generously for added flavor!
– Red Onion: Gives it a nice bite, balancing the sweetness of the raisins perfectly. Just a little finely chopped red onion adds a punch without overpowering the dish.
– Sunflower Seeds: These provide a fantastic crunch! I love the nutty flavor they bring. If you’re nut-free or prefer something lighter, you could substitute with pumpkin seeds.
– Bacon (optional): For those who want that savory, smoky flavor, crispy bacon crumbles add a delightful depth. If you’re vegetarian, it’s perfectly delicious without it!
– Mayonnaise: The creamy base of our dressing. I recommend a good-quality mayo for the best taste. If you’re watching your calories, feel free to use a light version.
– Vinegar: I like to use apple cider vinegar, but white vinegar works too. It adds tanginess and balances the creaminess of the mayo.
– Sugar: Just a touch! It mellows out the acidity and rounds out the dressing’s flavor.
Is Amish Broccoli Salad Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health benefits of this salad.
Broccoli: Packed with vitamins C and K, broccoli is also a great source of fiber, which aids digestion. It’s a nutritional powerhouse that can help with everything from boosting your immune system to promoting heart health.
Raisins: These tiny gems are rich in antioxidants and can provide a quick energy boost. Plus, they have iron, making them a great option for those watching their iron intake.
Sunflower Seeds: Not only do they add crunch, but they’re also loaded with vitamin E and healthy fats, which are beneficial for skin health and heart function.
While this salad is truly a make-ahead dream, keep in mind that the dressing is creamy, which can lead to higher calorie content. A good balance is key, so feel free to tweak the dressing to your preference for a healthier option!
Ingredients
– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
– 1 cup raisins (golden or regular)
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
– ½ cup sunflower seeds (or pumpkin seeds)
– 4-6 slices crispy bacon, crumbled (optional)
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
– 1-2 tablespoons sugar
This recipe serves about 6-8 people.
How to Make Amish Broccoli Salad?
1. Start by washing and cutting your broccoli into bite-sized florets. Set those vibrant green beauties aside in a large bowl.
2. Now, toss in the raisins, chopped red onion, and sunflower seeds. If you’re using bacon, add it in now too!
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth and well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and gently fold everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Pop the salad in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
6. When you’re ready to serve, give it a good stir and enjoy!
Make It Your Own!
– Feel free to toss in other ingredients like shredded carrots for additional crunch or diced apples for a bit of sweetness and freshness.
– Looking to make it vegan? Swap the mayo for vegan mayo and skip the bacon.
– If you’re not a fan of raisins, you could easily replace them with dried cranberries or chopped apples for a different twist.
This Amish Broccoli Salad is one that I’m certain you’ll love just as much as I do. I encourage you to try it out and don’t forget to share your experiences; I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Happy cooking!
